How to Make a Purse Insert

Ever found yourself rummaging through your bag, searching for your keys or wallet, only to realize they're buried under a mountain of receipts and tissues? A purse insert can be your lifesaver, keeping your essentials organized and easily accessible. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make a purse insert that's both functional and stylish.

Before we dive into the process, let's gather our materials. You'll need fabric for the main body and pockets, fusible interfacing for structure, scissors, a sewing machine, pins, and your choice of lining fabric. Optional materials include webbing for handles or straps, and D-rings for attaching them.

Designing Your Purse Insert

First, decide on the size and shape of your insert. Measure the interior of your purse to ensure a snug fit. Sketch out your design, including the placement of pockets and any additional features like key clips or pen holders.

Consider the layout of your pockets. You might want a large zippered pocket for your wallet, smaller pockets for coins or cards, and open pockets for easy access to frequently used items. Don't forget to leave some space for your phone!

Choosing the Right Fabric

Select a fabric that's durable and easy to clean. Nylon, canvas, or corduroy are good choices. For the lining, consider a lighter, slippery fabric like polyester or silk to make it easier to slide your items in and out.

If you're using fusible interfacing, choose one that's suitable for your main fabric. It should be lightweight but sturdy enough to give your insert some structure. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to fuse it to the wrong side of your main fabric.

Cutting Your Fabric

Cut out your main fabric and lining according to your design. Remember to add seam allowances! For the pockets, cut out the same shape from your main fabric and lining, but only add seam allowances to the sides and bottom. The top will be left open for now.

If you're including webbing for handles or straps, cut it to the desired length. You'll also need to cut out D-rings if you're using them.

Sewing the Main Body

Start by sewing the sides and bottom of your main body. Place the right sides of your main fabric and lining together, and sew around the edges, leaving the top open. Remember to leave the sides of your pockets open as well.

Press your seams open to prevent bulk. Then, turn your insert right side out and press the top edge. Topstitch around the top edge, making sure to catch the lining inside.

Adding the Pockets

Now it's time to add your pockets. Place the pocket pieces right sides together, with the main fabric on top and the lining on the bottom. Sew around the edges, leaving the top open. Press the seams open and turn the pocket right side out.

Position the pocket on the wrong side of your main body, with the opening at the top. Pin it in place, making sure the seam allowance is tucked inside. Sew around the edges of the pocket, making sure to catch the lining inside. Repeat this process for all your pockets.

Adding Handles or Straps

If you're adding handles or straps, attach them now. Fold the webbing in half and place it on the wrong side of your insert, with the raw edges aligned with the top edge. Sew along the folded edge, making sure to catch the webbing inside.

If you're using D-rings, attach them now. Position them on the wrong side of your insert, with the opening facing out. Sew them in place. Once you've sewn on all your webbing and D-rings, turn your insert right side out and press the top edge.

Finishing Touches

Your purse insert is almost done! All that's left is to topstitch around the top edge, making sure to catch the lining inside. This will give your insert a neat, finished look and help keep the lining in place.

Now that your insert is complete, it's time to put it to the test. Slide it into your purse and fill it with your essentials. You should find that everything has its own place, making it easy to find what you need, when you need it.

Enjoy your newfound organization! With your custom-made purse insert, you'll never have to dig through a messy bag again. Happy sewing!